Experts Check Pools to Control Bacteria
Many families will find their way to a pool this Memorial Day weekend. Health officials said pools can be a breeding ground for bacteria and viruses. With temperatures expected to rise in the 90’s this weekend, families are ready to hit the pools. “I have four grand kids and they swim and like to have a lot of fun,” said concerned grandparent Johnathan Anderson. According to health officials, a fun day at the pool can lead to serious water-related illnesses if bacteria in water is not properly managed. “A lot of people get sick with bacteria, and I’m one of them. So, I have to be very careful about that,” said Anderson. “The most common water based illness are associated with diarrhea, hepatitis, skin infections.” Those are just a few, ear infections are common for young children as well, said Epidemiologist Kevin Moore. Officials have a few tips to keep you and your children safe this summer. Make sure your babies are swimming with leak-proof diapers. Do not swim if you have diarrhea, and shower with soap before and after swimming. Health officials inspect pools one to two times a month. In between that time, officials said watch your children. Make sure they do not swallow the water. They also advise you to take your children on frequent bathroom breaks and change diapers away from pools.
